It was a chaotic scene outside the E. Barrett Prettyman Federal Courthouse in Washington DC on August 3, 2023 as Trump surrendered to face four Federal charges for his role in the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. He pleaded not guilty to the four charges; including conspiracy to defraud the United States; conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding; conspiracy against rights; and obstruction of or attempting to obstruct an official proceeding.

Outside the Courthouse the atmosphere was tense with anticipation of his arrival. The option he chose was as to face in person the charges read to him with his response as to guilt—as opposed to a reading of the charges from a remote location—for he had been provided an option to receive the charges from Judge Tanya S. Chutkan by teleconference.

Federal Judge Chutkan is said to be the “worst draw” for Trump and is not likely to indulge his defense attorney’s motions in the manner as Aileen Cannon, the Federal Judge overseeing Trump’s Mar-a-Lago classified documents case.

The press vehicles with satellite dishes spread the entire length of the avenue and around the courthouse—with hundreds milling around them to get a glimpse of his motorcade. The motorcade itself was largely protected by access of a tunnel branching off Highway 395, which runs under the National Mall, and exits under the Department of Labor, adjacent to the Federal Courthouse.

Many dressed up for the indictment in caricatures of Trump. Others held signs and yelled “lock him up” while some looked on bemused by the spectacle. Trump supporters were also there but greatly outnumbered. The few Trump supporters held firm to their beliefs and flags. It is doubtful there is anything anyone can do at this point to change their minds.

Never before has there been a sitting or former U.S. President so deeply mired in legal challenges as Trump now finds himself.

Video: ©️ John Zangas with DCMediaGroup

Photos: ©️ and courtesy by Robin Fader

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